The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

Lee and Marti Kufchak. photo by Conrad Weiler Co-chairs Marti and Lee Kufchak of the Black Butte Ranch Art Guild recently announced two local schools will each receive $1,000 awards from their group.

Sisters Elementary School's award will be used for obtaining art supplies and supporting visiting artists to work with children's art projects at the school. Parent Lauren Stoery heads the parent group at the school.

Sisters Middle School's award will support the Caldera visiting artists program, which provides art projects and exposure during the school year and at interim breaks. Kit Stafford coordinates the program.

"We want to thank the local community for supporting the recent 'Art at the Ranch' event," said Marti Kufchak. "Many people were involved and we wish to give back to the local community from our event."

The BBR Art Guild has also supported student artists with scholarships to graduating seniors from Sisters High School. Three students were each awarded $1,000 scholarships this year.

"It's so important for young students to have this hands-on opportunity in art projects at school," said Lee Kufchak. "Bringing artists in contact with children and supplying art materials broadens their educational experience. All too often art curricula suffer the firsts cuts in school programs.

"Those who have watched closely may have noticed the quality of art being presented in the Sisters school system. Starting in elementary grades and bubbling up through high school we see outstanding art presentations and graduating artists," he said.